I agree that it should be different and imaginative, but I think that Depp and Burton could make it those things, even if they are fans of the original show. I think they would respect the source material, but would come up with their own creative spin. Neither seem to be the type to copy something too closely, IMHO. I don't think their DS would be too much like Sleepy Hollow (maybe in atmosphere, which would be fine with me), nor would it stick too close to the original series. I see them doing their own thing if they can.
Out of all the big name actors out there, Depp would likely be my first choice to play Barnabas in a DS film. His talent and creativity with a part never ceases to impress me.